My vision for Newberry is I envision a town that keeps its friendly nature and welcomes more life enriching activities to be shared by people of various ages, races and backgrounds. I would like to see people discovering that they have something in common with a person they would not meet during their normal day. Through these enriching experiences they see the other person without preconceived notions of who they are, and friendships can form.​

The advice I would give my 20-year old self is...You will be making many decisions in your life and there is a clear formula for making GOOD decisions. I am afraid you do not know this formula for you too often say, “I am doing this because I am AFRAID that if I do something else, everyone will hate me” or “I have made the decision, I cannot change my decision because it would disappoint someone else. I will force myself to be happy with the decision.” This is the worst one of all, “I am not going to pray about this decision, listen to my friends or explore my doubts about this decision. To do so might make people mad at me.”

Before you make any new decisions about your life, first PRAY about the choices you are facing and see if they align with God’s word. Look at all the possible consequences and if any of them make you feel anxious, find out why. Second, don’t be rushed into a decision. Talk to those you know have WISDOM and who love you enough to give you honest and straight advice. (Only talking to folks who you know will agree with your decision is a waste of breath.) Talk to someone who has been in a similar situation. Lastly, be true to yourself by seeking wisdom, facing your fears and praying constantly for God to direct your path and use you for His will.

Doing all these things will not keep you from making mistakes, but it will make sure that the mistakes you make can be what you needed to learn before the next big decision. Remember FEAR is False Expectations Appearing Real. Through FAITH and thanksgiving, fear is gone!

You would be surprised to know that I am a procrastinator. For the last twenty years I have wanted to write and illustrate some stories. The funny thing is, I don’t think I am a very good writer and most of the time I put off writing because it seems to take me a very long time to communicate what I am trying to say. I especially love illustrations in children’s books, but the stories in my head are not children’s stories. One day I will put forth the time and effort to write these stories and I will give them to my children and grandchildren.

My Favorite Quote: “Perhaps you were born for such a time as this.” Esther 4:14

​My favorite quote is from one of my favorite books of the Bible. I love the book of Esther! I love mysteries and stories of suspense in general and this falls into that category but more than that it shows how God has a plan for good in all things. The Book of Esther has a villain who seems to be winning and a cleverly wise Uncle who helps Esther to see the big picture. I read it often and when I get to this statement my heart swells and I get goosebumps; “Perhaps you were born for such a time as this.” Esther 4:14

Read Esther when you have time to enjoy the many twists, turns and surprises. It is fantastic!